AAA Texas: As the Ball Prepares to Drop on New Year’s Eve, Statewide Gas Prices Drop As Well

(Coppell, TX) – As we approach the New Year holiday, the statewide gas price average in Texas is now $1.77 for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel, according to the AAA Texas Weekend Gas Watch. That price is two cents less than last week and 29 cents less per gallon than last year. Of the major metropolitan areas surveyed in the Lone Star State, drivers in El Paso are paying the most on average at $1.83 per gallon while drivers in Corpus Christi are paying the least at $1.69 per gallon. The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded remains the same as last week at $2.00.

Drivers paid the lowest averages for the Christmas holiday since 2009, and national pump prices continue to hover around the $2 benchmark. Leading into 2016, the national average is expected to continue to slide because supply should continue to outpace demand. Gas prices typically fall during this time of year as demand for gasoline decreases.

While seasonal price declines are again reflected across much of the country, prices on the West Coast have moved higher following supply issues in California. Ongoing and unexpected refinery maintenance has kept production from returning to normal levels, and new problems have tightened supply within the region and once again sent prices higher. This regional challenge could keep the national average higher than we would otherwise see, and contribute to volatility to close out the fourth quarter of 2015.

“Texas ranks among the top ten states with the least expensive statewide gas price averages in the country right now,” said AAA Texas/New Mexico Representative Doug Shupe. “Drivers in the state are paying about $25 to fill up the typical 14-gallon size fuel tank which is about $4 less per tank than last year.”

Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free and revamped AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route and learn traffic conditions along that route, find discounts, locate parking, book a hotel and request and track AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at www.AAA/mobile.com.

To help members and non-members identify quality auto repair shops that can assist in the maintenance and repair of their vehicles, AAA offers the Approved Auto Repair program as a free public service. AAA-approved repair facilities meet and maintain high professional standards for training, equipment, cleanliness and customer service. Motorists can look for the Approved Auto Repair sign at local auto repair facilities, or search for a nearby AAA-approved shop online at AAA.com/Repair. AAA Texas branch offices throughout the state can be found by visiting www.AAA.com. Follow AAA Texas on Twitter: @AAATexas and Facebook: www.facebook.com/AAATexas.